Dear You,

Today marks five years. Can you believe it?

I knew the date was coming up, since someone recently asked me how long I have been here. The number still shocked me, though.

FIVE. YEARS.

When I realized what today’s date was, I shared the “anniversary” out loud. And then I teared up a little. Ok, maybe a little more than a little.

I came here in 2021 with a vision of a much different life than the one I have now. I had no idea that I would move into my own apartment a little over a year after I arrived here. I had no idea that just a couple months after moving I would be navigating this area and living my life totally on my own.

I could have just left. No one would have faulted me for making that choice. And I would be lying if I said the thought never crossed my mind.

So why did I choose to stay? The simple answer is I chose to stay to find my joy. To find my peace.

You better believe I was nervous about staying somewhere without any support system. For a while, my life consisted of going to work and going home. I didn’t do much else. Except cry… a lot.

But then, I started going out. I started exploring. I started participating. I started talking to people. And I found a village. I found people I love dearly, who challenge me, and who help me every day to find the joy and peace I need. Even if they don’t even know their doing it.

So, I’m staying.

For how long, you may ask?

I have no idea. I’m just taking one day at a time. But you can be sure that I will continue to capture images of what speaks to me about this place.

On to the next five years?

(shrug)

Love,

Me